Towards a Mentally Flourishing School

P Project

What was the issue that required change?

A recent scoping exercise of School Nursing Practice in Scotland highlighted in excess of 40% of School Nurse time is spent responding to mental health issues and anxiety. Promoting social and emotional well-being reduces young people’s chances of having emotional and behavioural problems, participating in risk taking behaviours related to substance use, bullying, suicidal behaviours and sexuality.

How did you tackle it?

The aim was to develop a shared vision for a Mentally Flourishing School, with the whole school involved to enable social, emotional and psychological wellbeing. A steering group, involving pupils, teachers and parents provided a steer for all manner of activities, including a marketplace event, showing what services existed, mental first aid sessions, anti-bullying resources and access to an LGBT regional worker.

What was the outcome?

The project has started a process which can be sustained by the school, using a model which can be replicated by other schools. The various activities, including stress sessions and Scottish mental health first aid were well received, and students and staff alike identified they had improved their knowledge about how to manage their own mental health.